Another step for Joe

A glimpse of light in Leigh may yet shine like a beacon in Joe Pritchard’s road to recovery.

The young midfielder suffered the agony of a broken leg in an Academy match at Norwich on November 29, 2014.

A year and a day later, Joe returned to action for our Under-21s at Middlesbrough.

On Monday, he came off the bench for his second appearance this season and scored with his first touch, planting home a header from Andros Townsend’s cross to give the team hope of a late recovery against Manchester United at Leigh Sports Village.

Joe’s goal made it 2-1 with 13 minutes remaining but on a disappointing night, an equaliser didn’t materialise and United caught us on the break in injury time to wrap up a 3-1 win.

Below: United U21 3-1 Spurs - highlights

It was the 19-year-old’s first Under-21 goal in sixth substitute appearances spread over the last three seasons and step by step, he’s determined to push on further this season.

“I’ve been out of the game for a while so to score and get my name back in people’s minds was good for me and hopefully I can push on from here,” said Joe.

“I wanted to make an impact but unfortunately it wasn’t to be for us on the night.

“It’s been a very long road but I feel I’m getting back into it now. I’m thinking a lot more positively and obviously coming off the bench and scoring gives me confidence.

“Physically I feel good and the next step is to play more games and more minutes on the pitch.

“As I said, it’s a long road and I’ve got to stay on the journey, work hard every day, keep pushing and then I’ll hopefully reap the rewards.”